TC Tourism helped with trip planning and passes for some of the activities mentioned below. All opinions are my own.

TRAVERSE CITY WITH KIDS IN SUMMER

I grew up in Traverse City. And I never tire of visiting in the summer.

Summer is the time when Traverse City is ripe with things to do with kids. Beaches, fruit, festivals, you name it, it’s probably happening in Traverse City in the summer.

With endless options on where to go and what to do with kids in TC during the summer, I thought it would be helpful to have a list of the best things to do in Traverse City with Kids. Of course, this is all my based on my personal experience and opinions, so if you have something to add feel free to leave a comment.

THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN TRAVERSE CITY

BEACHES

With East and West Grand Traverse Bay, you are blessed with miles and miles of sheltered Lake Michigan shoreline that provides a superior swimming experience.

If you want to enjoy concessions and a splash pad along with your beach, visit Clinch Park downtown. Traverse City State Park is located on East Bay and offers a lengthy sandy swimming beach with a nautical-themed playground.

If you want seclusion, drive a bit and find one of the many public access points that dot the lakeshore.

BIKE THE TRAILS

Over the past two decades, the Traverse City TART Trails group has been working hard building a network of trails and bikeways across the region. Right now there are over 60 miles of trails just waiting for bikers, walkers and in-line skaters.

Most visible is the TART trail, but there are plenty of other trail options to keep you busy. If you need to rent bikes, stop at Brick Wheels, conveniently located on the TART trail on 8th Street. They carry kids bikes, bike trailers, trail-a-bikes and more.

KAYAK AND SUP FUN

Bring your own or rent water toys to play on. Stand Up Paddle Boards are a great option for the oft-calm Grand Traverse Bays. Or choose to kayak in the Boardman River or in the lake – either option will cool you off. If you need to rent equipment, check out The River Outfitters. They’re located in the heart of downtown Traverse City and offer all sorts of rentals.

GO FISHING

Yes, my brother owns a Fishing Charter in Traverse City. I’m proud of my little brother for his top-notch ratings on Trip Advisor for Daydreamer Fishing Charters and my kids can attest to how awesome it is to fish – and catch! – with Captain Uncle Ben.

Hint – book a trip for August. That’s when most of the out-of-state visitors have gone home (their schools start before ours do) and the salmon have started biting in the bays. It’s an experience you will never forget!

PLAY FOOTGOLF AT ELMBROOK

Mix up your golf game by bringing along a soccer ball. At Elmbrook Golf Course in Traverse City, you are welcome to kick your soccer ball around the course. Plan on two hours for a round of 18 holes. Bring your own ball or rent one there.

STATE THEATRE MATINEES

It’s no secret that the State Theatre has $0.25 kids matinees every Saturday at 10 AM (and on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the summer.) Watching a film on the big screen in the renovated, historic State Theatre is a treat. Bonus: $1 candy and $2 kiddie combos are well priced, too! Hint:Buy your tickets online to ensure you get seats. It’s easy and that way you won’t arrive at 9:46 AM to find the show sold out.

AMUSEMENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE

The road closes down for this popular community block party, held the first four Fridays in August.

With a full slate of music, entertainment, food, demonstrations, and family activities along the 100 and 200 blocks of East Front Street, this is the place to be on a Friday night. Friday Night Live runs from 5 – 9 pm.

FIND A FESTIVAL

Most people have heard of the National Cherry Festival, held in downtown Traverse City the first full of week of July. But that’s not the only festival around. Chances are if you’re visiting Northern Michigan in the summer, there’s a festival nearby.

Find an Exquisite Slice of Michigan in Ludington

A few years ago, our family had a pit stop stay in Ludington and I remember thinking at the time – we need to return for a true visit and exploration of this charming town.

We barely had time to scratch the surface of what this town had to offer. And, I’m slightly embarrassed to admit we never even made it to the #1 one spot locals recommend for a tasty treat..more on that.

Somehow Bright Blooms KinderPlay was left off the list!! It’s a wonderful indoor themed play space with rooms such as a Pirates themed room, a train table, a kitchen and a farm, a dress up and puppet theater room, a veterinarian room and more!! Children’s music classes and drop off parties are held weekly!